U.N. nuclear watchdog says Iran reported projectile hit Bushehr plant

Iran told the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that a projectile hit the premises of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, according to the U.N. nuclear watchdog.

“The IAEA has been informed by Iran that a projectile hit the premises of the Bushehr NPP on Tuesday evening,” the statement said. “No damage to the plant or injuries to staff reported.”

“Director General Rafael Grossi reiterates call for maximum restraint during the conflict to prevent risk of a nuclear accident,” the statement added.

The IAEA’s statement was based on information provided by Iran and did not amount to independent confirmation that the plant had been struck.

The Times of Israel reported that U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which is overseeing U.S. military operations in the war with Iran, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Bushehr, on Iran’s southern coast along the Persian Gulf, is the country’s only operating nuclear power plant. Russian contractors helped complete the plant after years of delays, and Russia has supplied fuel for the reactor under a cooperation arrangement tied to international monitoring of Iran’s nuclear program.

The IAEA had previously said there was no impact at Bushehr during the opening days of the U.S.-Israel operations against Iran.

In earlier updates based on satellite imagery, the agency said damage was visible at entrance buildings at Iran’s underground Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant and at two buildings near the Isfahan nuclear site, but not at Bushehr.